(The Center Square) – More Michigan communities received funds to upgrade, repair, or replace water infrastructure, Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy announced recently.
EGLE allocated $11.9 million through the Michigan Clean Water Plan, which Gov. Gretchen Whitmer launched in 2018.
“Thanks to recent support from federal and state government, communities have access to unprecedented funding opportunities to help them address deferred maintenance on their water systems. While our investments may not fully meet the staggering needs seen by our communities, each dollar is a meaningful step forward. My team at EGLE takes pride in our work to safeguard residents by supporting our cities, towns, and villages with grants and financing tools for these critical projects,” said EGLE Finance Division Director Paul McDonald.
Scottville received almost $8.7 million, which it plants to use to replace aging and too small water mains. The city will also replace 75 lead service lines.
Pontiac received $415,000 to rehabilitate storm sewer pipes and drains.
Water systems in Saline, Milan and New Buffalo each received thousands ito identify and prepare lead service lines for replacement. Three other communities received funds for similar projects.
Although the state has made progress in replacing lead pipes, Michigan is still grappling with the problem. In Detroit alone, 83,717 lead pipes still need replacement, according to recent data from the EPA.
